Army dedicates recreational park to Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja  

The Nigerian Army has inaugurated a new recreational facility named the Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja Recreational Park at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos.

The facility was dedicated to Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, wife of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. T.A. Lagbaja, in recognition of her contributions to the welfare of officers, soldiers, and their families during her tenure as President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA).

The grand opening ceremony, held on Saturday, 28 December 2024, was led by Major General A.E. Abubakar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN.

The park features a swimming pool, a five-a-side synthetic football pitch, trampolines, bouncy castles, electric merry-go-rounds, bicycles, swings, and battery-powered bikes, with all facilities floodlit for both day and night use.

In his remarks, Maj. Gen. Abubakar emphasised the park’s role in fostering community spirit and promoting relaxation and physical activities among service members and their families.

He noted that the park was a timely addition to the barracks community, given the absence of similar facilities in the vicinity.

The park also honours the legacy of the late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, whose contributions to the Nigerian Army and Plateau State were significant.

Maj. Gen. Abubakar highlighted that the park serves as a tribute to both Mrs. Lagbaja’s leadership and her late husband’s dedication to the welfare of soldiers and their families.

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Speaking at the event, Mrs. Fibishola Abubakar described the park as a “heartfelt gift” to the barracks community and commended Mrs. Lagbaja for her impact during her time as NAOWA President.

She also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. O.O. Oluyede, for supporting the project.

The ceremony concluded with a tour of the facility, the launch of various recreational amenities, and a novelty football match between the NAOWA and NASWA teams.